What makes the Isuzu D-Max 4×4 such a capable performer once the tarmac ends? Let’s examine this Japanese bakkie’s best off-road features…
A perennial podium finisher on the list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies, the Isuzu D-Max is well known for both its overall durability and its off-road ability. So, what makes this Japanese bakkie so very capable off the beaten path? Here are some of the best off-road features of the RG-series bakkie.
While we’re using the high-spec D-Max 3.0TD V-Cross 4×4 as an example here, most of these qualities apply to other 4×4 derivatives in the D-Max range, too. In addition, we’ll end with a quick look at a special variant that offers even more rough-stuff capability…
1. Low-Range Gearing and Rear Diff Lock
Ready to go off-roading in the Isuzu D-Max 4×4? Simply toggle the 4×4 rotary controller (which Isuzu calls the “Terrain Command Dial”) sited on the centre console to the appropriate setting and off you go.
With this dial, you can instantly switch between high-range modes (“2H” and “4H”) at speeds up to 100 kph. Selecting low range (“4L”), meanwhile, must be done when the vehicle is stationary. You can also engage an electronic rear differential lock should you be faced with particularly slippery, uneven surfaces.
2. Turbodiesel Engine’s Low-End Torque
Having plenty of oomph low down in the rev range makes it easier to navigate challenging terrain, since you’re able to tackle obstacles slowly. Thankfully, the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine in the D-Max V-Cross 4×4 produces its maximum twisting force of 450 Nm from as low as 1 600 rpm. The motor sustains this peak torque figure through to 2 600 rpm.
3. Ground Clearance and Off-Roading Angles
The D-Max V-Cross 4×4 boasts competitive approach- and breakover angles of 30- and 22.5 degrees, respectively. However, its departure angle of 18 degrees is interestingly a little below the class average. Still, with an impressive minimum ground clearance of 232 mm and a wading depth as high as 800 mm, this Isuzu bakkie certainly can handle the rough stuff.
4. Hill-Descent Control
Faced with an extreme downhill gradient? The D-Max V-Cross 4×4 ships standard with hill-descent control, facilitating a smooth descent at a controlled speed, even in treacherous off-road conditions. Isuzu also includes hill-start assist as standard, preventing the bakkie from rolling back when taking off up a steep incline.
Need Even More Off-Road Features? Meet the AT35
Based on the V-Cross 4×4, Isuzu developed the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 in collaboration with Icelandic specialists, Arctic Trucks. The Japanese brand’s plant in Struandale is the only Isuzu facility in the world accredited by Arctic Trucks to produce this beefed-up bakkie.
Besides boasting more aggressive styling, the D-Max AT35 gains a wider track, Bilstein off-road suspension and 35-inch all-terrain tyres wrapped round 17×10-inch AT black alloy wheels. Interestingly, though Isuzu originally sourced this rubber from BF Goodrich, these days the tyres come from Maxxis.
In AT35 guise, the bakkie’s minimum ground clearance improves to 266 mm and the wading depth rises to 865 mm, while the approach-, breakover- and departure angles climb to 33-, 34- and 23 degrees, respectively. In short, this is the ultimate factory-backed D-Max when it comes to off-roading.
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